RE: Internet restricts access to some?

[Ellen Russak <erussak@aol.com>]

Frances Venn asks: "Using the web and the internet and other technological means to keep "politics closer to home" has a lot of potential, but how about the people who can't afford computers, don't know how to use the internet, etc.? At this point in time, wouldn't we be restricting access,once again, to the more fortunate people in our society?"

The internet is only one part of a multi-proged effort.  It reaches out to a certain segment of the population (usually, but not always, the younger set) and it certainly wouldn't be the only one. Most libraries now have internet access available and many senior centers ond most schools offer classes in its use. 

There are still face-to-face debates and mailings;   League of Women Voters and other NGOs tape and televise candidate debates and non-partisan educational programs on issues; there are letters to the Editor, press releases, peaceful demonstrations, and written and oral testimony to legislators at all levels. There is supporting a candidate, running for office, serving on a board or commission.  There is joining an organization that is interested and active in the issues.  If someone feels left out of the process, it is only because they have chosen to ignore it.  The internet is progress, not exclusion.